Chapter 36: Let the Games Begin
"Darcy," Lord James Fitzwilliam, the Earl of Matlock, did not wait for the butler to take his coat or announce him. Striding down the hall, he appeared at the door to his nephew's study. The man within, sleeves rolled up to his elbows, appeared to be foot-deep in paperwork. The parchment in his hand must be giving him some difficulty, by the dark countenance.
"Yes, Uncle," Darcy stood as he attended to his appearance, somewhat aggrieved at the interruption. He had been working like the devil with little less than a fortnight before his wedding. Nothing must be allowed to come between him and his new wife for the few days they would spend secluded at Leighwood. Every minute not spent with Elizabeth had been consumed with business interests so he could devote himself to his bride once they wed.
"We are to take Gardiner to White's on Wednesday," James asserted.
The Peer's attitude proclaimed him head of the Fitzwilliam family and his decision not to be questioned. Lord Matlock ushered the younger man back into his seat as if Darcy were still in leading strings. His bearing and demeanour foreboding, James handed his top hat and greatcoat to Simms. Without ceremony, he requested tea, before seating himself across from his nephew and signalling they were not to be disturbed until he called.
"What can you mean by this entrance into my home?" Darcy enquired. His left eyebrow rose slightly understanding his uncle's machinations perfectly.
Matlock almost let out a snigger at the movement. It seems Miss Elizabeth Bennet is rubbing off on you, nephew. I see the changes your betrothed has affected and can only hope her sister will produce the same in my own son. I look forward to the future, with Henry's mind fixed on continuing our linage.
"Come, Darcy," Matlock shook his head, "I thought you more intelligent. Why would gentleman introduce another to White's?"
"Why indeed," Darcy almost glowered at the older man. "I know you too well Uncle. Please speak plainly, for I have much to achieve and very little time in which to do it. My marriage occurs Saturday week. As you well know, we have many engagements before that day."
"Then we shall have to influence the Prince Regent, who is to have a man at White's on Wednesday, to bestow a Knighthood on Gardiner," Fitzwilliam stated, raising one eyebrow, "at his earliest convenience. Oh, and convince Mr. Gardiner to purchase an estate so that he may be made a member of that exclusive club."
"I see your reason for this call," Darcy found humour in his uncle's approach, leaning back comfortably in his well-padded chair to observe the older man. "Mr. Gardiner is, at this very moment, meeting with his attorney. Soon Purvis Lodge in Hertfordshire shall be his country estate."
"I see," Matlock stated, his mind wondering why his nephew had not shared this very important information with him earlier.
"Really," Darcy managed to hold back his ironic smile while carefully scrutinising his relation. "Mr. Gardiner intends to use the house but rarely, for the family will visit Elizabeth and I at Pemberley once a year, especially as Jane is to live with us. Mrs. Gardiner knew my mother and this brings Georgiana great comfort."
"You," Matlock asked with a frown as his mind finally linked all the pieces, "have other plans for Mr. Gardiner's estate?"
"The family currently leasing the property," the sigh could be heard in Darcy's tone, "are willing to stay on with a new owner, but are reluctant to continue to care for the farming side of the estate. Gardiner and I are in the process of arranging for my steward at Netherfield, the adjacent property, to take overuse of the land. I wish to try this steam engine tractor and other newer methods of crop production away from Pemberley and assess their worth. Also, a new black cherry tree has been developed. The soil and climate in Herefordshire may well prove ideal for such cultivation. With the acreage under good management, I see the property worth upwards of seven thousand a year, with another two or three for Mr. Gardiner. More than enough for a second son, should Elizabeth and I be lucky enough to beget two boys."
James laughed heartily. "The Netherfield house will afford you somewhere to stay when you are in the area, other than your betrothed's family home. I should not have doubted you."
"You should not," Darcy stated, daring to give his uncle a displeased expression. Taking up his quill once again, he began working while still addressing the man seated across from him. "Gardiner is well aware of the opinions of those he has aided in business, especially now his family is to be aligned with the Darcy's and Fitzwilliam's. I have made my association with several of his more daring projects open to public scrutiny as I aid Devenish in his quest to improve the state of English Labour Law. In short, I have linked my family's reputation to trade as I believe it to be the way of the future. I no longer use Mr. Gilliam as my go-between. I have other duties for the man. A knighthood will only increase Gardiner's respectability, and profits, as many not willing to use his expertise, will now be tramping a track to his door."
"Then we all win from this transaction," Matlock agreed, not invited to stay but making himself at home anyway.
"Only if we can convince His Highness to confer a knighthood," Darcy reminded.
"You have a plan?" questioned the older man.
Sighing, Darcy dropped his quill, pushed away from the desk and gave up trying to attend his personal business. Standing he went to the decanter on the sideboard and pulled the cord. Offering to move to more comfortable chairs grouped before the unlit fireplace, he relocated with his spoils. Whilst the men waited for Simms to answer the call, James Fitzwilliam studied his nephew. Obviously, Darcy had much to impart from the way he settled into his chair.
"Coffee," Darcy announced with a long-suffering expression.
"Very good, Sir," Simms did not show his feelings. However, the household were becoming more familiar with their masters changing moods and instruction. It seemed Miss Elizabeth affected the young man for the better. This means, Simms sighed internally, more work for the staff as we are almost constantly besieged by visitors and houseguests. I must have Mrs Fox drop the hint to Miss Elizabeth so we may hire additional maids and footmen. She will take the hint and speak with the master.
Once the butler removed, Darcy wasted little time explaining his plans. They paused at the knock on the door several minutes later. A coffee service was placed on the table between the chairs, Simms did not need to be asked to pour, nor add a decent splash of brandy and cream to the cups. A curt nod from his master, and the head servant understood the men to be in a council of war.
"I have kept you from your business too long, I fear," James sighed a half-hour later. The pot finished and a good hand of brandy less in the decanter, both men had their parts to play over the next week. "I shall call for you in the crested carriage at five on Wednesday."
"Gardiner will be here as Georgiana is to host the ladies while we dine at White's," Darcy replied.
"My wife?" Matlock hinted at an invitation for Lady Susan.
Glaring at his uncle, Darcy stated, "Elizabeth will not be happy at Aunt Susan's interference with her sister prospects when the gown your wife ordered arrives at Gracechurch Street on Thursday. My betrothed is anxious enough about the meeting with Lady Cowper. She is determined to win favour with those who will allow her access to the highest society, without the worry over Jane's heart. Elizabeth is trying to establish her reputation as the future Mrs. Darcy. Aunt Susan has placed my betrothed's peace of mind in jeopardy."
Lord Fitzwilliam spluttered, wondering how his nephew knew when the Countess placed the order this morning.
"You see," Darcy carefully explained, "Madam Chastain is indebted to me. Her English husband found employment at Leighwood when few would hire an injured soldier married to a French woman. There is profit in fashion, as I am sure your pocketbook tells you when you receive the monthly account. The lady's skills were waisted at Leighwood, and went unnoticed until Georgiana wished to be the 'King Cat' from the children's book Father read to her."
The reminder pulled a grunt from the Earl. After his brother-in-law's death, Georgiana slipped into the written page. Darcy had allowed it for some months while learning to cope with his new responsibilities as Master.
"Georgiana's maid," Darcy's eyes focused on the empty fireplace, while his mind recalled the harrowing weeks and months after his father's death. "Told the laundry maids. Madam Chastain requested black material and sat up for several nights making the costume. It afforded a young girl great comfort as her world changed."
Shaking his head, James Fitzwilliam recalled a conversation between his wife and daughters. They thought Darcy overindulgent at the time. However, in the months that followed, Georgiana's gowns changed, making the young girl happier. His womenfolk could not stop talking of the cut and quality of her dresses purchased by her brother.
"Madam Chastain needed only funds to set up her shop and access to the best materials," Darcy recalled. "That is how I meet Gardiner. Marie knew of his warehouses. Between myself and Gardiner, we have ensured the lady's success. Georgiana and Mrs Darcy are to be clothed exclusively by Madam Chastain."
"You have not stopped the gown for Miss Bennet from being made," Fitzwilliam's smile widened, "which I take as your approval of the match. Make no bones, Darcy, Miss Bennet will be my daughter-in-law by the end of the year and the next Countess of Matlock. Susan has taken to the girl."
"Aunt Susan," Darcy sounded ironic, "would take to any woman able to get her beloved Henry out of the clutches of his mistress. Why my cousin took up with that…well, I suppose her allurements would attract even the coldest of men. By the way, she has already taken up with a man of a higher station, a Duke I am told."
"There are some in this world," and here both men knew they spoke not only of Henry's previous mistress but Wickham as well, "who would do anything for an easy life."
Their business at an end, James Fitzwilliam showed himself out. On the short walk back to Honeymead House, he found his mood greatly improved. Once again young Darcy had outwitted the older generation. Perhaps he should place the marriages of his daughters in the young gentleman's hands. With Richard the Master of Rosings Park, and Henry well on the way to marriage with Miss Bennet, James could soon consider shifting many of his responsibilities to the younger generation in preparation for the Viscount assuming the full authority of Matlock and all the family assets. Of course, he would wait until Henry and his new wife bore their first son. After all, the Earldom must continue.
"Darcy," James Fitzwilliam pushed past the butler and strode into his nephew's office. The Earl of Matlock refused to give up his top hat and coat. He had little intention of waiting to be announced, and less of remaining at Leighwood for any length of time.
"Yes, Uncle," Darcy sounded rather peeved as he looked up from the parchment before him.
At his shoulder, Mr. Gardiner stood, previously explaining the third expansion to their English Lace Project. Between them, they lacked the finance to complete this last portion of their much hoped for social experiment. The proposal, they both understood, to be bold in its design and well above the social morals of society. Few others would back such an audacious plan, especially as the profit would be many years in the future but the boon for their workers was already on display. The employees toiled only ten hours a day, were paid wages enough to live well and the children attended school until the age of three and ten. The gentlemen were, so far, pleased with themselves. That the English Lace had been well received by customers meant Darcy and Mr. Gardiner did not have to reach into their pocketbooks to support their design.
"It is almost five and we are due at White's," James could not keep the frown from his features. Although he noticed both gentlemen were attired for a night at the club. "I will not keep the Crown waiting!"
"A fact," Darcy stated archly, "of which I am well aware. Georgiana is entertaining Elizabeth, Miss Bennet and Mrs. Gardiner in the music room. The ladies are to dine with my sister, while we gentlemen go to meet the Prince Regent's man. Do not look so forlorn," Darcy frowned at his uncle. "All is moving along as you wish. I have managed to convince those who have the Prince's ear that this meeting is worth his while."
"Milord," Edward Gardiner approached the peer gently, "young Darcy is a man who, I am sure you understand, loathes deceit in any form. I have a contact within the Prince Regent's inner circle. Such patronage of our projects can only aid our business propositions."
Growling his displeasure, especially after their discussion on his plans for Miss Jane Bennet, Lord James Fitzwilliam did not feel disposed to think well of his nephew. It appeared the young man had taken Gardiner into his confidences. In the back of his mind, James knew this to be appropriate as Gardiner would soon be family. That being the case, there was little left to say.
However, such an inclusion did not sit well with the Earl of Matlock. He did not wait on the pleasure of anyone. This outrageous behaviour displayed Darcy's want to become the head of his own family, as was to be expected with his marriage only days away. While he would never be able to control Darcy, James hoped to continue to influence the young man. Thereby, he became determined to see his son and heir wed Miss Bennet before the next season commenced. In turn, he needed Gardiner knighted to be a worthy addition to the family.
"Perhaps," Mr. Gardiner said, after watching the Earls reaction to his words, "we may revisit this project at some later time, Mr. Darcy. There are more ways to achieve your aim, as I am sure your Uncle can attest."
Grumbling, James agreed, as his sour expression added to his even more dower countenance. He liked Gardiner, for the man was good company. Yet, the amount of sway the commoner held over Darcy was not to be born. James' attitude did not improve on their removal from Leighwood, nor the short journey to their Gentleman's club. Darcy took little notice of his Uncle's manner, preferring to use the time to better advantage. Mr. Gardiner joined the conversation which related to shared business prospects. Much to his displeasure, Lord James Fitzwilliam could only see the benefit from such an acquaintance which made it imperative Mr. Gardiner soon come to the attention of polite society, more so, play an active part in it.
"I believe," the concierge sniffed at the interloper gaining entry into the private rooms that were to host the Prince Regent's aid de camp, "you are expected."
The Earl of Matlock refused to be treated so by a servant. Holding his countenance, James responded in a cold tone, "I should hope so."
The retainer suitably chastised, in the Earl's opinion, caused Darcy mien to become frosty. If nothing else, Elizabeth's wit taught the young man to treat even those he had once considered beneath him with respect. Finally, after speaking with the employees of his English Lace Project, Darcy understood how unsympathetically tenants and workers were treated by other so-called gentlemen. It had been a shocking revelation, observing how his wealth depended upon the labours of those beneath him.
A footman led the party to a private room without a word. After ushering the gentlemen in, he shut the door without announcing them. Furious, James Fitzwilliam observed the others present and understood the need for prudence. Spencer Perceval and John Payne stood to welcome their guests. Neither sported a drink, indicating this meeting would be brief.
"Prime Minister," Lord Matlock bowed deeply. "May I introduce you to my nephew, Mr Darcy of Pemberley and Mr Gardiner of Purvis Lodge."
"Let us not stand on ceremony, Matlock," Perceval announced after introducing Captain John Payne. All the gentlemen in the room understood why the sailor had been added to their party. It seemed the man established a friendship with the Prince of Wales in their youth and managed to keep it for many years. Whatever went on in this room would be reported to His Highness. "You wish to have Gardiner knighted for services to the Crown. I can make that occur."
"What," James requested, understanding this negotiation only too well, "is the price?"
"Your vote on the upcoming Regency Bill. When Parliament returns, I expect the Whigs to cross the floor. Darcy, I believe you are acquainted with Lord Devonshire?" the Prime Minister hinted.
"I am," Darcy announced very carefully. Although his uncle could have brought him a seat in the House of Commons, politics was not Darcy's bent. He took an eager interest, establishing connections with many in the more liberal party. The Whigs believed in the rights of the 'common' man. Their chief aim; reform of society and especially of the government. The Torrie's, on the other hand, were quite happy to maintain the status quo.
What I am witnessing here, Darcy's mind rebelled at the necessity of this meeting, only proves my thoughts and ideas are correct. It will not be long before there is some uprising or another. The workers cannot be made to toil harder for longer hours with the expectation of nothing to sustain them. At least I do not deceive myself or Devonshire. The Regency Act is needed for Parliament to continue, now the King has gone completely mad.
"And do you know his thoughts?" Perceval insisted.
"If Parliament does not open," Darcy answered carefully, not giving away any of his friends' views, "then reform of any kind cannot be considered. I believe both sides can agree the Prince of Wales is the next in line of succession and his presence required for due process to continue."
"Capital," the Prime Minister turned to Payne. It seemed he was unsure of Darcy's support and could now relax. "And the Prince Regent? He is in agreement?"
"His Highness will be in town until Sunday next," the Captain reported with a sharp nod, "and will perform the ceremony."
"I shall have my sectary draw up the documents and have them dispatched," Perceval announced. "The announcement will be in the papers early next week. Shall we say Tuesday next for the investiture?" Although presented as a question, the Prime Minister did not expect anyone to object.
"That," Darcy stated, "will not be possible."
"Surely," Gardiner felt the rising tension and knew he had to dispel it, "we can leave for Pemberley on Wednesday. It will give you more time with your bride, before removing to the country."
"I am told congratulation are in order, Darcy," Perceval belatedly offered. Before Darcy could complete his bow of acknowledgement, the Prime Minister swept past him and out a concealed door.
Matlock sighed, watching the Prince Regents lacky follow Perceval. "Shall we dine," he offered his companions, "as we have achieved what we came to do?"
"And speak of more pleasant topics," Edward Gardiner understood the subtle subtext. It seemed there was little love lost between the current Prime Minister of Great Britain and the Earl of Matlock. After they had been seated in the dining room, he asked in a teasing tone, "should I wonder what great deed I have achieved to earn the gratitude of my country?"
"I believe," Darcy stated drolly, "Sir William Lucas was elevated to the Knighthood for harvesting enough Cleavers to send to the front line in this never-ending war with Napoleon."
"Given our casualties," Lord Matlock added, "I suspect the herb came at a time when most needed. So, Gardiner, what will you furnish for the war effort."
"Are not my taxes enough," the astute businessman offered.
Both Darcy and James Fitzwilliam attempted not to chuckle at the backhanded slight. The Prime Minister's determination to prosecute the war on the continent using the harshest of measures caused widespread poverty and unrest on the home front. Even middle-class businessmen the like of Gardiner had their profits reduced as taxes continued to rise.
Raising his glass, Matlock offered, "let us drink to better things."
"Family," Gardiner offered. "I look forward to removing to Pemberley and coming to know you better."
"I look forward," Darcy grumbled, "to this night ending and retiring to Leighwood."
"All in good time, Nephew," James Fitzwilliam glared.
Each man at the table understood they were on display. Once they completed their meal and removed to the games room, the real reason for the evening would commence. In order for Mr. Gardiner to become known at White's, and then offered a membership, they would need to remain until the clock struck at least midnight.
As the evening proceeded, they were approached by several gentlemen. Many wished an introduction to Mr. Gardiner. From there the conversation followed a well-worn path. In Darcy estimation, this night had been a great success for his betroths uncle. The meeting with the Prime Minister and the Prince of Wales aid de camp, sealed Mr. Edward Gardiner's place in society, most notably when The Earl of Matlock let it be known the gentleman had recently purchased an estate bordering on that intended for Darcy's second son.
AN: I'm attempting to stay one chapter ahead of those published. I'm also attempting to get you a chapter every week. However, my home city of Perth is in the midst of our first real COVID outbreak. Working hours have increased as I'm on a COVID response team and the caseload is becoming heavier each day. Hopefully, I'll have the time and energy to complete this work. I always had a vision of at least another 20 chapters. The story outline has not changed, I just have to convince my muse and fingers to cooperate. I wish to thank everyone for their support and patience.